The Ministry for Communities and Territories Development of Ukraine announced the approval of the new national standard DSTU ISO 21542:2025 “Buildings and structures. Accessibility and usability of the built environment.” The document sets internationally recognised parameters for accessibility in buildings and public spaces — from door widths, ramp gradients, and wayfinding logic to requirements for lighting, acoustic signals, and accessible toilets.
The new standard was approved by Order No. 351 dated 21 October 2025 and will come into force on 1 February 2026. It replaces DSTU B ISO 21542:2013, which corresponded to the previous version ISO 21542:2011.
The revised edition broadens its scope — the document now covers not only buildings but the built environment as a whole. The sections on ramps and lifts have been fully reviewed, and the parameters and structure of the standard have been clarified.
DSTU ISO 21542:2025 aligns with the European accessibility standard currently applied in the EU, Canada, Japan, Australia, and other countries. Its integration into the Ukrainian regulatory framework harmonises national construction norms with modern approaches to designing inclusive environments. The standard emphasises the principle of universal design — considering user diversity at the design stage, which helps minimise the cost of ensuring accessibility.
The implementation of the new DSTU is another step towards harmonising Ukrainian regulations with European ones and creating a modern, safe, and comfortable environment for all.
Read also: Amendments to building codes on inclusivity approved: clear requirements for entrance doors introduced.
Illustrative photo: Mabel Amber (c) Pixabay
ISO 21542 defines a number of requirements for access to buildings, movement inside, exit under normal conditions, and evacuation in the event of fire.
Ukraine updates national standard for barrier-free environment DSTU ISO 21542
ID no: 23979
Oct 15, 2025
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